Stool consistency and stool frequency are excellent clinical markers for adequate colon preparation after polyethylene glycol 3350 cleansing protocol: a prospective clinical study in children.
BACKGROUND
Colon preparation for a colonoscopy in children is a difficult task because of the unpalatable taste and large volume of cleansing solution that needs to be consumed to ensure a clean colon. Consequently, an unprepared colon frequently occurs in routine practices, which causes early termination and a repeated procedure.


OBJECTIVE
(1) To assess the effectiveness of polyethylene glycol solution (PEG 3350) in preparing the colon of children scheduled for a colonoscopy and (2) to investigate clinical markers associated with an adequate colon preparation before a colonoscopy.


METHODS
A total of 167 children scheduled for a colonoscopy.


METHODS
In a prospective study, children scheduled for a colonoscopy were given PEG 3350 solution (1.5 g/kg per day, up to 100 g/d) over a 4-day preparation period. Each day, a simple questionnaire that documents the amount of liquid consumed, adverse effects, and the number and consistency of stool was completed by the parents. After a colonoscopy procedure, the colon preparation was assigned a number grade. The data were later assessed and were compared to determine the association between the grade of cleansing and the frequency and/or consistency of stool during preparation.


RESULTS
Colon preparation was completed in 149 children, 133 of whom were adequately prepared. Inadequate preparation was found in 16 children; the procedure was terminated prematurely in 2 of these patients because of unacceptable conditions. No significant adverse effects were noted. A number of >or=5 stools/d, and liquid stool consistency in the last 2 days of preparation were associated with adequate colon preparation.


CONCLUSIONS
PEG 3350 solution is safe, efficacious, and tolerable for children. Stool frequency and consistency in the last 2 days of preparation were excellent markers (positive predictive value 91%-95%), which predict an adequately clean colon before a colonoscopy in children.
Safder
Shaista
S
Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology Division, Joan C Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia 25701, USA.
Demintieva
Yulia
Y
Rewalt
Mary
M
Elitsur
Yoram
Y
D000293:Adolescent; D002400:Cathartics; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003113:Colonoscopy; D003672:Defecation; D005243:Feces; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D011446:Prospective Studies; D055815:Young Adult
D002400:Cathartics; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols